The Australian and New Zealand dollars declined against the yen for the first time in five days as concern increased that global economic growth will slow and Asian stocks failed to extend a four-day rally.

The Australian dollar touched its strongest level in more than two years against the greenback as speculation the Federal Reserve will expand stimulus measures boosted demand for higher-yielding assets.

The Swiss franc strengthened against higher-yielding currencies as oil prices rose above $100 a barrel for a second day amid unrest in North Africa and the Middle East, fueling demand for the currency as a haven.